Why female filmmakers need powerful allies

Americans love the idea of a lone hero. The lone hero is all but synonymous with the American Dream — the idea that one person can achieve anything with work, dedication, and a little luck.

Of course, their successes are not just the result of herculean solo efforts. It's the result of mentorship and collaboration. The men who have made cinematic history are the men whose vision appealed to those other men in charge of funding and production; who were showered with awards by their like...